Blu-ray multi-channel analog vs. HDMI


Now I know this question has been pondered before, but I thought I would chime in on what I have learned from my system.

I have a Sony BDP-S550 and an Onkyo TX-SR605. I know this is low end stuff, so please forgive me! I bought the Sony (with its 7.1 analog outs) before upgrading to the HDMI-capable Onkyo. After fiddling around, I was surprised to learn that the analog outs on the Sony sound much better than the Onkyo doing the decoding and DA conversion over HDMI.

My question is how do certain Blu-ray players with 7.1 analog outs compare to certain A/V receivers. More specifically, where would the Oppo 83 (SE or no SE) stack up in terms of what receiver would give comparable sound via HDMI

Thanks!
Mark
markhyams

Showing 3 responses by kr4

" I love the analog sound much more than the digital decodings. "

They are all digital decodings. The only difference is where the decoding takes place.

Kal
The real advantage of going HDMI, aside from the convenience, is to make available the more sophisticated bass/channel management, post-processing and room equalization in the processor/AVR. How have you assessed the influence if these on your deliberations?

Kal
Cannot say since I do not know much about the various AVRs but the limited DSP should be a clue that the 605 is not a product on which attention to audio quality was lavished.

Kal